Guidetti Joins On Loan

He’s someone who if you get him in the right areas will make the most of opportunities that come his way"

Mark Hughes

MARK HUGHES has today strengthened his attacking resources by signing John Guidetti on loan from Manchester City.

Stoke held off competition from a host of clubs to secure the services of the highly-regarded Swedish international, who will spend the remainder of the season at the Britannia Stadium.

They moved quickly to complete the formalities of the deal after freeing up a loan opportunity by converting midfielder Stephen Ireland’s loan from Aston Villa into a permanent arrangement.

Guidetti has been restricted to just one League Cup appearance for City but made a huge impact while on loan in the Dutch Eredivisie with Feyenoord, scoring 20 goals in 23 appearances.

The 21 year old returned to action earlier this season after a lengthy spell on the sidelines through injury and is understandably keen to make up for lost time in his spell with the Potters.

Hughes told stokecityfc.com: “We wanted to try and add different options to our attacking threat and John will certainly do that.

“He’s someone who if you get him in the right areas will make the most of opportunities that come his way because he’s a natural goal-scorer.

“There were several clubs who were interested in taking him on loan and we’re delighted that he has chosen to join us.”

Chief Executive Tony Scholes added: “We’ve had the deal to bring John in on loan on the stocks for a few days now but had to convert Stephen Ireland’s loan deal into a permanent deal to free-up another loan.

“We’re delighted to have brought John to the Club and are grateful to Stephen and Villa for their co-operation.”